At just 21 years old, Namibian boxer Elifas Shailemo has already packed a lifetime of determination, discipline and hard choices into his journey through the sport.
His love affair with boxing began in 2009 when, at the age of six, he discovered the sport to stay out of trouble after school.
“What started as an escape from playing in the streets and joining the wrong crowd turned into my passion. I officially started fighting at seven. It wasn’t serious in the beginning, but it gave me structure,” he recalled.
His introduction to the ring came through Jeremiah Nakathila, one of Namibia’s top professional fighters, who took him under his wing during their early days at Nampol Boxing Academy.
“At first, I had no one my size to spar with – but a few years in, more kids joined. Suddenly, it became competitive. That’s when I really fell in love with it,” he shared.
Over time, boxing became more than just a pastime.
It became Shailemo’s future.
He made the difficult decision to take a break from school to fully commit to the sport. Balancing part-time work to support his training and living expenses, he now pours his energy into becoming a world-class athlete.
“I knew it wouldn’t be easy, but I had to make sacrifices. Everything I do now – working and training – is about building a future through boxing. Education is still important to me. I plan to return when the time is right. But for now, I’m focused on becoming the best version of myself in the ring,” Shailemo said.
He draws inspiration from his role model American boxing legend Terence Crawford, known for his adaptability, focus and quiet dominance.
“Crawford’s work ethic, his ability to adjust in the ring, and his calm confidence really inspire me. He doesn’t need to talk big – his performances speak for themselves. That’s the kind of fighter I aim to be,” he said.
His achievements so far speak volumes.
He is a three-time national champion across junior, youth and senior levels.
He represented Namibia at several international tournaments, including the Golden Prix Tournament in Botswana, the Busto Arsizio 2nd World Qualification Tournament in Italy, and the Mandela African Boxing Cup in South Africa.
Despite his progress, the journey has not been without obstacles.
One of his toughest challenges has been facing unfair team selections.
“There were times when I gave everything in training and performed well – only to be overlooked because of politics or favouritism. It hurt, but it taught me resilience. I stopped trying to prove myself with words and instead focused on showing what I could do in the ring,” Shailemo said.
Another barrier has been the lack of international exposure, particularly training camps and high-level bouts that help sharpen elite fighters.
Still, he remains committed.
His training routine is intense: twice a day from Monday to Saturday – and once on Sundays. Mornings are spent working on conditioning at Virgin Active in Maerua Mall.
Afternoons are reserved for technical work with his national team coach at Mistake Boxing Academy or Sunshine Boxing Academy.
Sundays are dedicated to long-distance runs or hikes to build endurance.
Looking ahead, Shailemo envisions himself competing at continental and global tournaments, with the Olympic Games firmly in his sights.
“In five years, I want to be recognised not just as a talented boxer, but as one of Namibia’s most disciplined and respected athletes. I want kids from tough backgrounds like mine to see that anything is possible if you put in the work,” he said.
-lmupetami@nepc.com.na